Solomon Islanders have been encouraged to invest in the agriculture sector and renewable energy to stop the ‘dependency syndrome’ and protect families from global external shocks.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele issued the statement on Sunday during a press conference organised to update the nation on recent international engagements, national developments, and Government priorities as the government continues with its full implementation of the 2026 programme of work.
“As we approach 50 years of political independence, we must move away from the “dependency syndrome” where so much of our stability relies on external factors.
“I strongly encourage Solomon Islanders to continue investing in agriculture and renewable energy.”
He said, more than 70% of the land remains under customary ownership.
“This is our greatest national asset.”
He explained, when Solomon Islanders grow their own food through subsistence farming; “we reduce our dependency on expensive imports and protect our families from global shocks.”
He pleaded with Solomon Islanders to get involved in the agriculture sector.
“I ask every citizen to see agriculture not just as tradition, but as a vital contribution to our national security, and a national duty.”
He further highlighted that, under the agriculture sector, the government is implementing the Solomon Islands Agriculture and Rural Transformation [SIART] project through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
“This is a $125 5million (SBD) investment designed to move our farmers from subsistence to agri-business.
“This is a joint commitment: while supported by a World Bank grant, the Solomon Islands Government has also committed $50 million in concessional credit, representing a responsible, long-term investment in our rural economy.”
PM Manele said, to date, SIART has engaged with nearly 100 Agribusiness Producer Organizations (ABPOs) in Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira-Ulawa.
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